Understanding when the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funds Behaviour Support can feel confusing for many families and participants. With different terms, rules, and funding categories, it’s not always obvious what the NDIS will cover or how to access the right support.
This guide breaks down the essentials in clear, simple language so you can feel confident navigating the process. Whether you are new to the NDIS or reviewing your next plan, here’s what you need to know.
What Is NDIS Behaviour Support?
NDIS Behaviour Support is designed for participants who experience behaviours with risks of harm (historically referred to as behaviours of concern), behaviours that may pose a risk to the individual or others, or make daily life more difficult.
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) aims to:
- Understand what’s behind these behaviours
- Teach new coping skills and safer, more effective behaviours
- Improve the quality of life for the participant and their support network
The NDIS funds Behaviour Support because it is considered a specialised, capacity-building service that helps participants gain skills, thrive in their environment, and reduce the need for restrictive responses.
When Does the NDIS Fund Behaviour Support?
The NDIS will fund Behaviour Support when ALL of the following apply:
1. The participant has behaviours with risks of harm
This may include:
- Aggression or physical outbursts
- Self-injury
- Property damage
- Running away from the environment or support
- Inappropriate sexual behaviours
Positive behaviour support operates from the lens that all behaviours serve functions, and are often linked to anxiety, communication challenges, or sensory overload.
These behaviours must affect the participant’s daily functioning, safety, or ability to engage in support services.
2. Behaviour Support is considered “reasonable and necessary”
The NDIS must believe the support:
- Is directly related to the participant’s disability
- Will help them build skills and reduce risks
- Is evidence-based and likely to work
Positive Behaviour Support clearly meets these criteria when behaviours are affecting wellbeing, safety, or day-to-day life.
3. The participant needs a Behaviour Support Plan (BSP)
If behaviours with risks of harm are present, or if any restrictive practices are in place, the NDIS typically funds Behaviour Support so a trained Practitioner can:
- Complete assessments
- Create a Behaviour Support Plan
- Provide training to family and support workers
- Review and update the plan regularly
Even if no restrictive practices are used, a BSP may still be recommended to support the participant’s development and safety.
4. The support helps build long-term capacity
The NDIS funds support improvements in independence over time.
Behaviour Support fits this goal because it:
- Builds emotional regulation skills
- Reduces stress for both participants and families
- Improves communication and daily routines
- Helps participants engage more successfully with other therapies
Where Does Behaviour Support Funding Appear in an NDIS Plan?
Behaviour Support is usually funded under Capacity Building and Improved Relationships.
Depending on the participant’s needs, their plan may include funding for:
- Functional behavioural assessments
- Behaviour Support Plans
- Training for caregivers and support workers
- Ongoing Behaviour Support sessions and reviews
- Monitoring and reporting when restrictive practices are involved
If a participant’s plan doesn’t include this category, but behaviours with risk are present, you can request a plan review or discuss it during your planning meeting.
Common Misconceptions About Behaviour Support Funding
“You only get Behaviour Support if restrictive practices are used.”
Not true. Behaviour Support is often recommended to avoid restrictive practices by teaching safer alternatives.
“Plans automatically include Behaviour Support if you have a disability.”
Only participants with behaviours with risks of harm typically receive this funding.
“You must prove something is wrong before the NDIS will fund it.”
You don’t need a crisis, just evidence that behaviours impact daily functioning or safety.
“Only psychologists can deliver Behaviour Support.”
NDIS Registered Behaviour Support Practitioners come from various clinical and educational backgrounds and specialise in PBS.
How to Talk About Behaviour Support in Your Planning Meeting
You can support your funding request by describing:
- What behaviours occur
- How often do they happen
- What triggers them
- How they affect daily life
- Safety risks to the participant or others
- Whether the family, school, or carers feel overwhelmed or unsupported
Documenting real examples helps the Planner understand the impact clearly.
How Liberty Behavioural Services Supports NDIS Participants
At Liberty, we focus on fast, effective, and compassionate Behaviour Support for participants across Australia.
Our team helps families:
- Understand their behavioural funding
- Prepare for NDIS planning meetings
- Access Behaviour Support quickly
- Reduce stress, overwhelm, and daily challenges
- Build long-term skills and emotional well-being
We work alongside participants, families, schools, and support teams to create plans that lead to meaningful progress and improved quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Behaviour Support is funded by the NDIS when it is reasonable and necessary and supports a participant in building capacity, improving safety, and living a better life. If behaviours with risks of harm (“behaviours of concern”) are present, you may be eligible for this support, even if no restrictive practices are currently used.
If you’re unsure whether you or your family member qualifies, we’re here to help.
Need Support or Clarity? Let’s Find Freedom, Together.
Contact Liberty Behavioural Services to understand your options and get personalised guidance.
